Summary

Francis is upset when the abbot seals the shelter without thorough investigation. A rumor - true -spreads, "Emily had a gold tooth." When Emily Leibowitz vanishes at the beginning of the Flame Deluge, it takes years for the widower to admit she is dead. As in the days of Noah, God tests prideful mankind by commanding wise men like Leibowitz to devise unprecedented engines of war containing the very fires of Hell. Magi give these to all the princes, warning no one dares use them. The princes, however, see the advantage of a secret first-strike and bring on the Flame Deluge. The Memorabilia records how, within days, cities are destroyed, nations vanish, crops die, and deserts spread. Many die of the poisoned air, while survivors wander, resulting in a confusion of tongues. Hate is born and determines to wipe out the magi, their hirelings, and all record about...